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9 Houseplants That Look Like A Banana Tree To Bring Tropical Space

by Marry Dell

Nothing says tropical quite like the lush, oversized leaves of a banana tree. But if you’re short on space or want that breezy island feeling indoors, you’re in luck. These 9 stunning houseplants give you the same bold, leafy drama, without needing a full backyard or jungle climate.

Each plant on this list mimics the tropical charm of banana trees, thanks to their broad, arching leaves and exotic presence. They’re perfect for turning any room into your own oasis of calm, even on the hottest summer days. While some of them love sunlight and others prefer shade, all bring a splash of greenery that feels both luxurious and grounding.

Ready to make your space feel like a vacation? These banana tree look-alikes are just what you need.

#1 Cigar Plant (Calathea lutea)

Image Credits: Carousell

If you love structured, upright leaves with a bit of flair, the Cigar Plant delivers. Its tall, paddle-shaped foliage rises elegantly, creating vertical interest in corners or near windows.

You’ll want to give it bright, indirect light and high humidity to keep it happy. Perfect for adding that rich, tropical look to a modern interior.

#2 Auriculatum (Philodendron auriculatum)

Auriculatum boasts large, heart-like leaves that unfurl with an effortless jungle vibe. This plant thrives in bright spots with moist soil and steady warmth.

Its generous leaves bring texture and fullness to any space, ideal for filling up bare walls or empty nooks with lush greenery.

#3 Sterling (Dieffenbachia ‘Sterling’)

Image Credits: Planterina

Sterling makes a bold statement with long, striking leaves that easily reach 14 to 20 inches. The silver-green variegation adds a cool tone, perfect for calming bedroom corners or balancing bright decor.

You should give it a warm, filtered-light spot and consistent moisture for best results.

#4 Giant Bird of Paradise (Strelitzia nicolai)

Image Credits: Patchplants

With leaves stretching 2 to 4 feet long, the Giant Bird of Paradise brings drama like no other. You get that banana tree silhouette along with occasional birdlike blooms if conditions are just right.

You can place it near large windows and water when the top inch of soil feels dry. This plant truly commands attention.

#5 Abyssinian Banana (Ensete ventricosum)

Image Credits: Instagram

Abyssinian Banana dazzles with foliage that shows hints of deep maroon against rich green. To bring out the bold colors, give it bright light and consistent humidity.

While it doesn’t bear edible bananas, the foliage alone makes it a showstopper. It thrives best in warm, sunny rooms or enclosed patios.

#6 False Bird of Paradise (Heliconia rostrata)

Image Credits: Carousell

False Bird of Paradise stands tall, reaching up to 5 to 8 feet indoors with bold foliage and uniquely colorful bracts. Shades of pink, yellow, and green turn any corner into a tropical scene.

It prefers a humid atmosphere and indirect sunlight, so it is perfect for bright bathrooms or a sunroom.

#7 Bird of Paradise (Strelitzia reginae)

Image Credits: Hadleycourt

This is the smaller cousin of the giant variety, but just as stunning. Its fan-like leaves grow up to 3 feet and create an eye-catching canopy indoors.

Place it where it can soak in lots of light, and don’t forget to rotate it occasionally to encourage even growth. Bonus: You might get a striking orange-and-blue bloom.

#8 Metallica Palm Tree (Chamaedorea metallica)

Image Credits: Living4media

Metallica Palm offers glossy, narrow leaves with a cool, metallic sheen that catches light beautifully. It doesn’t grow tall, but its sculptural shape adds variety to plant collections.

It does well in low or dappled light; therefore, it is a great choice for rooms that don’t get full sun.

#9 Banana Leaf Dieffenbachia (Dieffenbachia ‘Big Ben’)

If you’re craving bold leaves that echo banana plants, Big Ben doesn’t disappoint. The foliage is wide, arching, and intensely green.

This plant thrives in warm, humid environments with 4 to 6 hours of bright, indirect light. Keep the soil slightly moist, and you’ll be rewarded with lush, continuous growth.

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